Figure 1. Essential Parts of a Rubric

Developing rubrics helps clarify expectations for student performance and comprises of criteria and descriptors matched to levels of achievement or grading scale, presented in a format such as a table or matrix (Figure 1). Once the criteria for a performance are clearly defined, an instructor can align the course with the criteria to help students meet the requirements. Hence, the use of rubrics not only helps to specifically and consistently assess and evaluate qualities of learning but also communicates expected standards of learning. Moreover, rubrics help students interpret their own levels of performance, learn what must be done to improve performance and subsequently achieve higher standards of performance.

The information comes from Centre for Holistic Teaching and Learning, Hong Kong Baptist University.